Emphasis is placed on the main features of well-designed homes as they serve to attract attention from the very first moment. Designers believe that the entire mood and one on a location depends on focal points, while at the same time emphasizing that decorating to create a focal point does not have to be intentional.
Sometimes we randomly choose textures, architectural features or lights to be used as spotlights without knowing their striking power. However, our home becomes recognizable and visually interesting. This is the main reason that you primarily use focal points in your interior.
Even so, decorations have to be handled with care. Focus should not be too modest or excessive. So we’ve compiled a list of the most common pieces you might want to consider:
Chimneys
Image source: John Lum Architecture, Inc. AIA
Fireplaces are definitely at the top of the list of popular spots because they are beautiful and unique. You can even make yours stand out by replacing the edges or repainting them in accent colors.
If the budget allows, replace the tiles with custom solutions. Then, when the fireplace is bigger, spread the tiles under and over it, or choose a protruding wooden mantle so that visitors fall in the glass.
Don’t have a fireplace? Fake!
Image source: Morning Star Builders LTD
The atmosphere of fireplace seats, which is so valuable for fireplaces, can be achieved even without jackets and chimneys. The common choice is bioethanol fire that does not smoke and uses biofuels (so you don’t have to plug it into any type of power supply).
Even when there’s no fire at all, an artificial fireplace can warm hearts and make people feel like it’s holiday season.
Artwork
Image source: DK Martin Bau
There is no better place for an art lover to display a favorite than the comfort of their home. A beautiful painting can become a tasteful addition to any room, especially if you hang it over the fireplace or mantelpiece.
Large and expensive paintings are designed to attract, but also attract attention, so don’t add distractions by hanging other similar decorations. With smaller ones, you can also think of decorative frames and accent lighting.
Use technology
Image source: J. Kramer Corp.
Your brand new, expensive arm-and-leg TV deserves to be featured! Instead of hiding it in a closet, take advantage of its beauty and make it a part of your bookcase, closet or your favorite wall.
mirror
Image source: Sharron Lewis Design Central
Mirrors are beautiful and polished additions that make a room look classier and larger. You can put them in ornate frames or choose ones with interesting shapes and unique sizes. Remember, sophisticated rooms don’t look the same without a mirror.
Murals
Image source: Sroka Design, Inc.
You can never miss the point by making your room more personal and this is where murals come in. For example, passionate photographers can show off oversized pieces of their favorite work to add depth and drama. Plus, the tactic is very inexpensive.
Unique lighting
Image source: Purple cherry architects
There is nothing more boring than traditional lighting. So opt for one-off pieces that can be used as focal points. The first advice we would give you is to get luxurious with a large crystal chandelier.
Sculptures
Image source: Thom Filicia Inc.
Sculptures are one of those elements that visitors would never expect, and that guarantees you serious attention for the living room.
You can even use more than one sculpture, provided they are related and positioned close enough not to distract attention.
You can place the sculpture anywhere you deem appropriate considering its size, of course. In most cases, sculptures are placed in the middle of the room, on tables or above chimneys.
Use the blanket
Image source: Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC
This definitely wasn’t the first thought you came across, but ceilings are the perfect focal points in a room. Check out some interesting ideas and don’t rule it out before you’ve even started.
It is usually enough to repaint inconspicuous floors or contrast them with bold geometric figures.
The view outside
Image source: Ekman Design Studio
If you ask me, there is nothing more beautiful in a room than a large window that reveals a beautiful landscape. It is the treasure of a few. So if you are lucky enough to have it, take advantage of it!
Do not cover the window with heavy curtains or distract the view with flashy colors. Let the window do its own magic.
Ceramics
Image source: A. Perry Homes
Both colored bowls and decorated vases are visually appealing and cute and are among the cheapest ways to enrich a room with a beautiful focal point.
Ceramic is supposed to be colorful, so ideally you should place it on neutral surfaces and let it stand out. It’s the perfect addition to tiny coffee tables and neutral mantels.
However, avoid it in modern interiors as it gives a strong traditional feel to any room.
One strong color
Image source: Lisa Petrole Photography
It doesn’t get any easier or cheaper! A single bold color in a neutral interior is perfect enough to grab attention as it naturally draws attention to it.
As I said, the general scheme should be more or less neutral (creamy white, soft brown, gray) while the bold pop should appear on a single element (a carpet, chair, lamp, or work of art).
You can also use tiny additions of the same color to support the scheme (such as pillows).
Make the most of textures
Image source: Structural photography
Materials are their own focuses as they attract attention without human intervention. Think, for example, of wood paneling or a wall. Don’t they look memorable and can pique a person’s interest?
Centerpieces
Image source: Michael Abrams Limited
When it comes to centerpieces, you are the master. You should use creativity and use a piece that you must already have in the center of your room.
It can literally be anything from a crystal bowl filled with willow balls, to an instrument, to craftsmanship made early in your career.
Having pieces like this is usually great for breaking the ice and starting a pleasant conversation with your visitors.
Greet flowers
Image source: David Duncan Livingston
Flowers are always desirable because of their freshness and warmth. Place beautiful bouquets of flowers wherever you can, especially if you’ve opted for minimalist decor.
Flowers will never look overdone or dated, they won’t cost you a fortune, and you can add as many as you like.
The black scheme
Image source: Oliver Burns
Black is a classic choice because of its solidity and imposing character. No visitor will surpass black, and they will most likely feel that you have put hard work into making your place what it is.
At the same time, black looks elegant and trendy, especially when applied to unique shapes (modern lamps, funky chairs, etc.).
The only thing to be careful about is not to use too much of it. Once you’ve applied it to large areas, break up the dullness with an interesting pattern. Otherwise, it will quickly become overwhelming for both residents and visitors.
Meaningful artifacts
Image source: Susan Manrao Design
Think of the objects that are of special, personal value to you. It can either be your favorite wedding portrait, the rug you bought on your vacation at sea, hard-won certificates, or the precious antique you inherited from your grandparents.
Whatever you choose, display it and make the place more personal. The best way to design your interior is to let it convey the story of who you are that by no means goes unnoticed!